New Car Checks

When the big day arrives to pick up your brand new car, you may be tempted to simply jump in and drive off happily into the sunset. However, buying a car represents a major financial investment, and rushing things at this stage could cause you a lot of hassle and grief further down the line. Carrying out a few simple checks will help to ensure that your perfect new car really is all that it should be.

Collection Checks

• Arrive at the garage on time and inspect the car thoroughly before signing any paperwork or handing over any money.
• Avoid picking the car up when it is dark or raining as you won't be able to spot bodywork problems. If you don't have a choice, ask for it to be recorded on the sales invoice that you have not been able to examine the vehicle thoroughly, due to adverse lighting or weather conditions.
• Check the car's specifications and paperwork.
  • Is it exactly what you ordered in terms of trim level, engine and optional extras?
  • Are you the first registered keeper on the registration document?
  • Has the car been taxed?
  • Has the pre-delivery inspection (PDI) been carried out, and has the service book been stamped to reflect this?
• Walk around the car and check all corners, body panels and windows.
  • Is the paint a uniform colour all the way around?
  • Is there any evidence of any touching in or respraying?
  • Are there any dents in the panels?
  • Is the paintwork scratch and chip-free?
  • Is the glass damaged in any way?
• Check the interior of the car carefully.
  • Is the interior marked in any way?
  • Does everything work? Make sure that you press all the buttons, move all the seats and try everything out, so that you know that everything works as it should.